After 12 months of planning, star Super Rugby flanker David Pocock has assumed the role of skipper for Western Force from Nathan Sharpe.
Sharpe, who has been in this position since the inception of the Force in 2006, is currently in the last year of his contract and will make a decision later this year on whether he’ll continue into a 16th season in 2013.
According to Force coach Richard Graham, it is the ideal moment for Pocock to take over as captain, noting that it allows the 23-year-old sufficient time to adapt to the responsibilities while having Sharpe available for guidance.
“I had a fairly clear strategy in mind about 12 months ago, and I’ve spoken to Nathan throughout that period,” Graham commented on Monday.
“I really believed that utilizing Nathan’s experience was crucial, both in mentoring the next leader—David—and in leveraging his leadership throughout the entire squad.
“This has been an ongoing process for the past 12 months.”
Expressing his gratitude for the opportunity, Pocock recognized the exemplary leadership of Sharpe over the years.
“I’ve gained a lot of insights from him, and the best part for me is that he’ll continue to be around, allowing me to bounce ideas off him. He will undoubtedly have a significant role in the team,” Pocock stated.
Graham mentioned that he would not appoint a vice-captain but instead collaborate with the leadership skills of various players within the club.
With 40 Test appearances for the Wallabies, Pocock was awarded the 2010 John Eales medal, recognizing him as the nation’s top performer.
Additionally, he has been nominated for the International Rugby Board Player of the Year for the last two seasons.
The 104kg powerhouse, affectionately known as Bam Bam for his robust physique, has accumulated 55 Super caps since making his debut in 2006.
While he has garnered extensive praise for his dynamic performances on the pitch, his contributions off the field are equally commendable.
For his efforts in establishing the charity organization Eighty-Twenty Vision, which aids disadvantaged communities in Zimbabwe, Pocock was named Young Australian of the Year in 2012.
by Buford Balony
